Want to view the solar eclipse? This map lets you check your exact location on the path

On April 8, a total solar eclipse will cross the United States, Mexico and Canada — a celestial event that hasn't occurred in the U.S. since 2017.

Solar eclipse map 2024

Using the map below, find your location to see when the eclipse begins and ends and how much of the sun will be covered at its peak. Dark red dots along the path of totality represent areas that will experience a total solar eclipse, and all other orange areas will see the moon partially cover the sun. Don't see a map? Click here.

What is the difference between a partial and total solar eclipse?

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Earth, moon and sun are perfectly aligned. During a partial solar eclipse, only some of the sun is obscured, creating a crescent shape.

Graphics: A total solar eclipse will cross the US in April: Here's where and when to see it

What is the path of totality?

Observers in the path of totality — where the moon completely covers the sun — will be in the direct line of darkness. Along this path, the sky will darken for about 3.5 to 4 minutes in most places.

Even those who aren't in the path of totality will notice the sky appear slightly darker than it was before the eclipse. All U.S. states, including parts of Alaska and Hawaii, will experience at least a partial solar eclipse.

How rare is a total solar eclipse?

There are two total solar eclipses every three years, according to NASA, but the next visible one in the U.S. won't happen until August 2044, over two decades from now.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What is the path of the 2024 total solar eclipse? An interactive map